At $39,866/yr net price, Boston College graduates earn $103,937/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $69,937/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $39,866 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $159,464 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $103,937/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$69,937/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 91.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $19,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $5,851/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,655/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $12,554/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $23,325/yr |
| $110,001+ | $56,247/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Master | $117,572 | $41,000 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $115,060 | $55,000 |
| Educational Administration and Supervision. | Doctoral | $111,435 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Master | $100,439 | $63,861 |
| Law. | Doctoral | $93,588 | $123,000 |
| Computer Science. | Bachelor | $84,100 | $18,000 |
| Information Science/Studies. | Bachelor | $76,460 | $16,803 |
| Curriculum and Instruction. | Doctoral | $76,460 | |
| Finance and Financial Management Services. | Bachelor | $75,518 | $18,000 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Bachelor | $71,015 | $13,000 |
The Risk Factor
91.0% of students at Boston College graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
Boston College delivers strong financial returns despite its premium price tag, with graduates earning over $100,000 annually within a decade. The university's 91% graduation rate and 95% retention rate suggest most students complete their degrees and find the investment worthwhile.
Finance majors at BC command the highest salaries at $117,572, making the program's $41,000 debt load manageable. Business Administration follows closely at $115,060, though the $55,000 debt burden requires more careful consideration. These business programs leverage BC's strong alumni network in Boston's financial sector and beyond.
Law presents a concerning financial picture with $123,000 in debt leading to just $93,588 in earnings. This debt-to-income ratio makes BC Law a risky choice unless you secure BigLaw positions or have family financial backing. Nursing graduates earn solid middle-class salaries but carry $63,861 in debt, creating a longer payoff period than other healthcare programs might offer.
BC's biggest financial risk lies in its limited need-based aid, with only 13% of students receiving assistance. This signals that most families pay close to the full $39,866 annual net price. Merit scholarships exist but remain competitive at this academically selective institution.
You should consider BC if your family can afford the high costs without excessive borrowing and you plan to major in business or finance. The school works best for upper-middle-class students who value the Jesuit education model and strong career services. Look elsewhere if you need substantial financial aid or plan to pursue lower-paying fields like education or social work, where the debt burden could overshadow your earnings potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Boston College worth the high tuition cost?
Boston College's $39,866 annual net price delivers solid returns with graduates earning $103,937 after 10 years. The 91% graduation rate and relatively low $19,000 median debt make it financially viable for most students who complete their degrees.
What are the best paying majors at Boston College?
Finance graduates from Boston College earn around $117,572 annually, followed by business administration at $115,060. These business programs offer the strongest financial returns compared to other majors at the school.
How much debt do Boston College students typically graduate with?
Boston College students graduate with a median debt of $19,000, which is manageable given the school's strong earning outcomes. This debt level is lower than many comparable private universities.
Does Boston College provide good financial aid to reduce costs?
Boston College brings the average cost down from its sticker price to $39,866 through financial aid. However, this net price is still high compared to public alternatives, making affordability dependent on family income and aid packages.